DZ 3.1 "Passive" Release Is Out

• Download from SourceForge
• Download from Google Code
• Get source code from Subversion

CHANGES since 6.0-INSTRUMENTATION

• Integrated Servomaster again (see dz3-servomaster module);
• Passive Mode operation is possible again after a long while;
• Another round of 1-Wire driver code refactoring, streamlined bus operation, fixed several race conditions;
• Replaced hardcoded RxTx dependency with the reference to Maven Central Repository.

Unlike last time, there are no instructions to configure servo controllers along with the rest of the system, it is not possible to run it without detailed understanding of how to configure the whole system. However, this blog contains more than enough information on that - under /label/configuration. If this turns out to be insufficient, join the mailing list and start asking questions.

NEXT RELEASE

3.2-BAREBONES, for real this time. I hope. As soon as that relay board makes it here.

Servomaster 0.8.2 released

This is a maintenance update for 0.8.1.

CHANGES

• servomaster-serial: now uses RxTx dependency available from Maven Central Repository, you don't have to manually install it (though you do have to take care of platform libraries, that'll come later);
• servomaster-usb: now allows Phidget Quad Servo to be instantiated by Spring Framework (DZ3 dz-servomaster requires it).

DOWNLOADS

Available from SourceForge and Google Code.

DZ3 FAQ: My servos growl and jump!

Q: I've used R/C servos to control my registers/dampers, just as you said, together with controllers that you told me to, but the servos growl even when they don't move!

A: Three causes are possible (ordered by probability):

• Power is insufficient at the register/damper location, wiring is too weak. Run a 16 gauge speaker wire to it, and put a 470μF electrolytic capacitor from ground to power at each servo, this worked for me.
• Register/damper is too tight for the servo you used. Either loosen it up mechanically and lubricate well, or use a higher torque servo.
• Servo is getting old. Old setup I used to run 2001 to 2003 had no problems, but the same servos I used back then growl today, even though they haven't been used for last five years.

Q: Servos are jerking and generally misbehaving, why?

A: Control signal is too weak, servo doesn't recognize it as such anymore. Google up a "servo booster" (there are too many around to recommend anything specific) and install it at servo.